Venky's 'formalise' deal with Kean

Struggling Blackburn have confirmed a "revision" to manager Steve Kean's existing contract - but stopped short of admitting the under-fire boss has been handed a pay rise.

Speculation had been mounting that the club's Indian owners, the Venky's poultry empire, were set to reward Kean with an improved deal despite their side's dismal start to the season.

And the club issued a brief statement which read: "Following recent media speculation Blackburn Rovers FC can confirm a revision to manager Steve Kean's existing contract has now been completed."

It continued: "An agreement made in the summer has now been formalised.

"Contrary to some reports there is no change in the length of the contract. The club respects that all contracts are private and confidential and no further comment will be made."

Rovers salvaged a last minute draw at Wigan on Saturday but remain second from bottom of the Barclays Premier League table with just one win and seven points from their 12 games to date.

Kean has come under pressure from some sections of the Rovers support, with small demonstrations held before and after games, and even a private plane chartered to fly above Ewood Park pulling a banner reading 'Kean Out'.

Venky's chiefs tied up Kean's new deal after jetting in for the Wigan game - but they left at half-time having reportedly been left feeling uncomfortable by barracking directed their way en route to the stadium.

However, although they have stopped short of handing Kean a contract extension, Venky's have handed their under-pressure boss the ultimate vote of confidence ahead of Saturday's trip to Stoke.